Breaking: Restrictions in place at St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny
Restrictions are in place at St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny following outbreaks of Covid-19 and Norovirus.
The following wards are impacted with the visitor ban: Barrow Ward, Nore Ward, Surgical 2, and Medical 2.
The ban is due to increased infection control measures required for Covid-19 and Norovirus (Vomiting & Diarrhoea) and access to these wards will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances, as determined by each ward manager.
Designated visitors will be asked to wear a mask and appropriate PPE whilst in the hospital.
Exceptional circumstances
Visiting will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances such as:
- End Of Life Non-Covid-19 Patient - Only two nominated relatives,
- End Of Life Covid-19 Patient – Only one nominated relative utilising correct PPE/hand hygiene/IPC advice etc,
- Critically ill patient (Only two nominated relatives only)
One parent only will be allowed visit children in the Paediatric Unit at any time. Children should not visit the hospital.
Visiting to the Maternity Unit remains unchanged.
A hospital spokesman said that there are a number of Covid and non-Covid-19 patients presenting to the Emergency Department and the public are asked to consider their care options, if possible.
"Please consult with your GP or pharmacist before attending ED in St Luke’s General Hospital. However, if urgent care is required, patients should attend the hospital. Management and staff would like to thank the public for their patience at this time.
"We’d also like to remind the general public that anyone who is experiencing Covid-19 like symptoms to contact their GP in the first instance. Please avoid coming directly to ED if you feel you might need to be treated for Covid-19 or you wish to have a test. Getting an early diagnosis from your GP means you can get the help you need and take steps to avoid spreading the virus, if you have it," added the spokesperson.
The restrictions come into force at 6pm today.